By: Emily Harper

Throughout November and December, youth in I Pour Life’s programs have learned the power of gratitude and how serving others can impact the community. With the hustle of everyday life, remembering to be grateful of what’s around can seem easier said than done. It can be incredibly challenging to look beyond the problematic circumstances at-risk youth have faced, and cultivating a heart of gratitude often takes a significant amount of work. Gratitude is a tool that provides the opportunity to connect with others and re-emphasizes the posture of a positive, future-focused mindset. I Pour Life is incredibly proud of how youth have expressed their appreciation to those around them and have chosen to serve their community.

Giving Back to the Community

In December, the youth had the chance to travel with I Pour Life to Crosslines’ food pantry in Springfield, Missouri. At I Pour Life, we believe there is a purpose in working alongside fellow nonprofits to reach communities. Whether wrapping diapers or preparing Christmas gifts for needy kids, these youth went above and beyond. Not only did youth help Crosslines accomplish great work, but they also maintained a positive and uplifting spirit. The smiles on the youths’ faces were evident throughout their time serving.

Cultivating Gratitude

Developing a gratitude perspective doesn’t require grand gestures. It often begins with acknowledging the small things that bring us joy. At I Pour Life’s November Social Capital Club event, youth had an opportunity to practice expressing gratitude to their friends and family. Our friends from Burrell Behavioral Health provided a heart-warming and educational presentation on the importance of gratitude and how it can positively impact our brains, improve lifestyle habits, and assist in building stronger relationships. 

During this event, the youth enjoyed a meal together while in fellowship. Youth were given the objective to write a letter to someone they appreciate. Through the recognition of impactful people in our lives, November’s Social Capital Club was a wonderful experience in cultivating gratitude!

Volunteering with I Pour Life

Are you ready to create a positive impact and encourage your community meaningfully? Volunteering is not only an act of kindness; it is a powerful tool to bring lasting change in the lives of each heart involved. This call to action inspires a journey of giving back, just as youth have done through the recent Social Capital Club events. If you would like to explore volunteering opportunities with I Pour Life or would like more information on how to get involved, visit ipourlife.org/contact. Volunteering is not what you can give — it’s about what you can gain: a stronger connection with your community.